Analysis  and  Review  of  Popular  Culture,  Perception  and  Attitudes  towards  Roma  

Groups  in  Romania.    

FINAL  REPORT  

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Analysis and Review of Popular Culture, Perception and Attitudes towards Roma Groups in Romania. FINAL REPORT This report is the result of the individual reports carried out as part of the WS 1 and WS 2 analysis and open meetings of the BEAMS project in Romania. This report has been produced with the financial support of the Fundamental Rights and Citizenship Programme of the European Union. The contents of this report are the sole responsibility of Fundatia Dezvoltarea Popoarelor and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Commission. Edited by: Mircea Toma Ionut Codreanu

www.beams-project.eu

TABLE OF CONTENT: Chapter 1 | Collection and Review Of Migrant/Minority Stereotypes in Popular Culture

Production 4

General introduction on the context and applied methods 4

Description of the chosen samples 5

Main findings from the interviews 10 Chapter 2 | Stereotypes, perception and discrimination 15

General introduction: on the applied methods and basic and basicinformation on “open meetings” 15

From production to perception 16

From perception to attitudes 19

Main conclusions & recommendations 23

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Chapter 1 | Collection and Review Of Migrant/Minority Stereotypes in Popular Culture Production General introduction on the context and applied methods Whether we are talking about the press in the 90s, about latest TV fiction products that address Roma culture, or about today's online environment, ethnicity image still inherits of stereotypical representations which have not faded with time. Today Roma people inherits a heavy baggage of stereotypes and negative roles that have been preserved in the collective mind with slight changes in the last 20 years. Mass media, entertainment programs’ producers or other sources of messages taken by the popular culture - some Romanian and foreign politicians, for example - have acted more often, to the effect of confirmation or deepening of negative Roma stereotypes. Often caused by changes in the socio-political context, variations in Roma perception - in order to reduce stereotypical elements - are minor because, unfortunately, they did not change the perception on Roma sufficiently to reach the standards of an inclusive society, based on unity and diversity. The present study draws a temporal panoramic image of Roma in mainstream culture. In this respect, the research team investigated the most accessible platform of production and reproduction of popular culture: the media (Fiske & Hartley, 2002). Cultural Consumption Barometer’s results, conducted in 2010 by the Center for Research and Consultancy on Culture, support this thesis. Results showed that over 83% of Romanian devote at least one hour per day to watching television, a process defined by researchers as "domestic cultural consumption". Furthermore, studies on Romanians' preferences in choosing primary sources of information, puts television first, accounted for more than 96%. During the research, we identified the key identity elements, that make stereotypical profile of Roma in terms of its placement in different social contexts as well as the cultural mutations that the representation of this ethnic group has undergone in popular culture. To reach a exhaustive profile picture, we structured samples of media products illustrative of the perception of Roma circulated in popular culture, we evaluated the significance of these products with reference to data generated by media studies that have sought to identify Roma socio-cultural image, we analyzed themed cultural products - case studies - and we conducted a series of interviews with media producers and representatives of government

authorities concerned with combating discrimination and protecting a public space of communication, free of prejudice and racism. At the end of the study, we allege that, despite the fact that, presently, Roma culture is not enough publicized (that reality applies to all ethnic minorities in Romania), some progress have been certainly made towards the diffusion of elements related to the Roma culture in the majority culture. Obviously, this situation must be evaluated with caution, as sociological studies still indicate a huge social distance between Roma and non-Roma population, at the level of acceptance. In the early '90s, a visionary sponsor 1 and the initiative of students from Babes-Bolyai University in Cluj Napoca2 allowed us to explore the media representation of Roma in the years 1990-1993. The authors’ findings were dramatic: over 90% of all reviewed publication presented Roma as actors of overwhelmingly negative actions. The growing interest of the media for Roma issues was consistent with a dramatic social phenomenon which was characteristic of the early years after 1989: pogroms triggered in several areas of non-Roma against Roma communities (a phenomenon analyzed by activist Istvan Haller, who identified and documented 15 such conflicts)3. How were Roma represented by press reports, on this bloody scene? The analysis of publications’ discourse reports: nouns and adjectives commonly associated with Roma: "weapons (knives, forks, axes, bayonets, swords, stones, sticks, bludgeons, hoes, guns, bottles, tear sprays), Coloured people (Brown, black, dark, darkie), theft, robbery, murderers (murderers, criminals), band (pack, gang, horde), drunk (drunks), crime (murder), imprisonment (sentence), violence (aggression). "More rarely (one to two appearances) words with positive connotations were associated: "virtuosity, imagination, passion, bearers of folklore." The most frequently occurring verbs in articles on Roma were "hit (beat), kill, assault, threaten, terrorize (scary), assault (molesters) or mugged (robbed)". Moreover, in the first decade after the revolution of 1989, the press was the main promoter and vehicle of the negative stereotypes about Roma. Television

1 Soros Open Society Foundation

2 Laura Budiu, Burda Codruţța, Social Representations of Roma population in Romania, Press Monitor, Active Watch Romania, 1996-1997

3 István Haller, Conflicte nesoluţționate de aproape 20 de ani, “Sfera Politicii” nr. 138, 2009

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market was in a nascent form, nationally there are only two commercial television and the public television. The 2000s is undoubtedly the climax period in the construction of Roma media profile. The media market has experienced a spectacular development, both through mass media expansion and through the diversification of communication channels. Commercial competition between actors on the media market and the development of media technology would bring new elements into the mental reconstruction of Roma. But above all, the public and political agenda of the Romanian society in the pre-accession and post-accession to the European Union would contain a substantial chapter devoted to Roma. Politicians and journalists together have committed to active campaigns to rebuilding the status of ethnic Roma. Unfortunately, most approaches of this type were initiated in a dissociation register. Romanian Roma seemed to represent " the usual suspect"4, the Roma were associated with negative actions in over 71% of cases. In the editorial practice, journalists had developed a new method of transmitting stereotypes, through the quotation of racist voices. Therefore racism was not assumed by the author's signature, but was placed in quotes. Together with the accession to the EU, members of Roma ethnicity began to be presented in the media as the main responsible for the poor image of Romania in the European club. Romanian TV stations and newspapers began to cover the actions of Roma migrants in different European countries. The inflation of such topics was also generated by the European political context, who recorded more and more populist-nationalist movements in countries with democratic traditions more important than ours. Beyond media or politicians agenda, in the last decade, we notice that some of the negative stereotypes about Roma were transferred to entertainment productions. Under the dome of humor, the main commercial broadcasters have invested in entertainment productions and built the narrative and pamphlets by and about Roma, inspired, in fact, by the agenda of news programs. Immediately after 2007, Romania produced the first soap operas inspired by the Roma culture and ethnic relations. TV station „Acasa” (part of the Media Pro trust) produced the first thematic trilogy that run for three years and managed to build some iconic characters which were controversial, but loved by the general public. Moreover, the promotion of Roma culture and identity has increased gradually and in parallel with the ethnic media profile. Unfortunately, we can not say that there are improvements in the position of Roma in Romanian society. The trend of over-mediatisation of the „dangerous Roma" to national or European identity continues to manifest. The cultural identity elements of 4 This trend will be confirmed by ulterior research, from 2001 to 2002.

Roma play a peripheral place in the public agenda and, except for the traditional music, they do not necessarily enjoy a favorable representation of Roma ethnicity. This reality is best shown by the two Ethnobarometer made in Romania in the decade 2000 - 2010, which clearly show the social distance between Roma and the majority population. The majority of the population, although it appreciates elements of Roma culture (music, dance, crafts and the cohesion between members in the Roma community), still has reservations in accepting a Roma family member. The distrust in Roma in 2000 exceeded the threshold of 75%, to reach 65% in 2010. On the other hand, in the last decade, an alternative image of the Roma, free of stereotypes has emerged in the public space. This competing perception is the product of the work of actors which explicitly intend combating stereotypes - Roma organizations, human rights organizations, public organisation of monitorisation of speech in public space, but especially people who understand that identity is strengthened by culture and education, not hatred and stigmatization.

Description of the chosen samples In this section, we present some examples of cultural products, inspired by the life and culture of the Roma, which perform different functions in the consumer’ behavior and are distributed on media channels whose popularity varies. We believe that the most relevant examples worthy of being subjected to content analysis are cultural productions generated by commercial TV stations in Romania, due to the large area coverage and large audience. So, the first criterion in selecting these products has been linked to the history and audience of the Romanian television stations. Another criterion for selection was that of the perpetuity of negative stereotypes about Roma, in order to capture how relevant topics concerning ethnicity are recycled in entertainment production as a form of circumvention of racist behaviors and attitudes. To facilitate the analysis of these examples of cultural products, we propose a primary reading in terms of the functions that mass media information, cultural, educational and evasion perform (Coman, 1997; Randall, 1998).

I. Portrayal of Roma in mainstream entertainment In this section we illustrate some alternative representations of Roma in entertainment products, to signal changes that they have undergone certain topics of general interest related to Roma. Moments selected by the authors of the research can be interpreted as an invitation to reflexivity: it is humor currently the best method to soften social and cultural tensions between Roma and non-Roma?

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We note that the choice of these materials was carried out randomly, using electronic video archives preset phrases. a) The Roma and education TV Show: In puii mei TV channel: Antena 1 Brief: attempted bribery of a teacher, with the aim of promoting the Roma student Titel Ciupilac in the seventh grade. Compositional elements of Roma characters: traditional costume, verbal aggressiveness, submissiveness, intimidating speech, reduced intellectual ability for an adult. Valence: negative Frequency: maximum Resilience: maximum

b) The Roma and violence TV Show: In puii mei

TV channel: Antena 1 Brief: A traditional Roma family resort to emergency medical services and come to loggerheads with the medical staff. Compositional elements of the Roma characters: traditional costume, verbal and physical aggressiveness, disrespect of authority. Valence: negative Frequency: maximum Resilience: maximum

Antena 1 is the first commercial station in Romania, founded 20 years ago (1993), a constituent part of the media holding Intact Media Group. Below you can follow the key steps in the evolution of this channel5: 1993 - Dan Voiculescu invests in first TV commercial in Romania, offering an alternative to the national television audience. New TV is called Antena 1 and starts by broadcasting movies and news. 1994- The rising of Antena 1 leads to the foundation of a production company for the shows in the station’s grid. Intact Production takes over the production of the shows of Antena1. Territorial expansion starts by launching the first local studio, Antena1 Pitesti. Intact Media Group takes shape.

1998 - In September Antena1 is relaunched with a new ID graphics package created by the famous company

5 Sursa: http://www.intactmediagroup.ro/despre-noi/istoric/

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Pittard Sullivan and a new program schedules whose main element was the strengthening of their productions, the first TV channel in Romania with nine hours of live coverage daily. 2007 - Antena 1 is recognized as the No. 1 entertainment TV in Romania.

c) The Roma and migration TV Show: Cronica Cârcotaşilor TV Post: Prima TV Brief: Buckingham Palace is preparing for the marriage of Prince William to Kate Midleton. The palace staff are three Roma who creates problems in accomplishing their tasks. Compositional elements of the characters Rome: traditional costumes, indiscipline, rudimentary language. Valence: negative Frequency: maximum Resilience: maximum

d) Roma and funerals TV show: Mondenii TV Post: Prima TV Brief: In a traditional Roma family, the participation to the wake of an important family member, marks the moment of exchanging harsh lines between relatives. Compositional elements of the Roma characters: traditional costumes, choleric behavior, opulence, rudimentary language, verbal violence. Valence: negative Frequency: maximum Resilience: maximum

Prima TV was founded in 1994 and the third television station whose editorial policy is focused on information and entertainment. In fact, the slogan of the station since 2007 is "We love to entertain you".6 e) Roma - music and dance TV Show: Romanians have talent TV station Pro TV Brief: Performance band Amentza Aven (Romania) in the talent-show Romanians have talent (2012). Compositional elements of the characters Rome: traditional costumes, virtuosity, energy, non-conformism. Valence: positive Frequency: minimum Resilience: maximum

6 Sursa: http://www.primatv.ro/companie.html

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II. Roma representations in TV series F1. Series: Gypsy Heart 7 (2007 - 2008) TV Post: Acasa TV (Media Pro) Synopsis Gypsy Heart This is their story. The story of forbidden love. From the moment they met, Irina and Codrut love each other and both dream of a happy life and a family together. But Codruţț (Stefan Denis) is a Gypsy living in the camp. Although he’s educated and works as an Emergency physician, he is still confronting the prejudices and mistrust of Romanians. However, Codrut is proud of his origin. His father, Aurică Fieraru (George Dinică) is the leader of the camp, he’s not educated, but he graduated the school of life, "the real one". He is a traditionalist and would never conceive that his son would marry a Romanian woman. Codruţț’s mother, Spain (Florina Cercel) is not thrilled by the idea, but she supports Codrut, because she loves her children very much. (...) On the other hand, Irina (Andreea Patrascu) is a smart girl who comes from a wealthy Romanian family. Her father, Gigi Dumbrava (Florin Zamfirescu) built an empire and he is waiting for a heir. The young and opportunistic girlfriend, Flori (Dana Hauer) fails to become pregnant, the eldest daughter Renata (Eugenia Serban) has two daughters, and Gigi would never allow Irina to marry a gypsy. Compositional elements of the Roma characters: traditional costumes, traditions, united family, devotion, obscure life, humor, aggressiveness, etc. .. Valence: Medium Frequency: average Resilience: Medium

7Source: www.cinemagia.ro

F2. Series: The Queen (2008 - 2009) TV Post: Acasa TV ( Media Pro) Synopsis The queen8: Regina is a story where the characters of Gypsy Heart, television phenomenon that has made history in Romania, are intertwined, in a surprising setting, with new characters of high strength and sensitivity. Two worlds confront in the Roma: traditionalists Gypsy and those who have lost their identity. The balance is about to fall apart when Don Antonucci ( Dan Condurache), the silent partner of State Potcovaru (Gheorghe Visu ) makes its appearance, to settle in the camp with his family. He is charismatic, influential and vindictive. His background of human trafficking, drugs and weapons remains hidden and nobody suspects the reasons that led him to return to Romania . (...) Regina ( Diana Dumitrescu ), Don 's adopted daughter draws everyone’s attention: her beautiful face with noble traits contrasts sharply with the wild behavior. Beyond the contrasts, she hides a secret, a royal cameo. The Queen’s Transformation from a terrorized and internalized being, into a beautiful, full of life woman, will begin when she falls in love with Cosmin ( Bogdan Albulescu ), a Gypsy squatting Aurică’s camp ( George Dinică ) . (...) Since the beginning, the chemistry between Regina and Cosmin proves magnetic. But their love story will be marked by Armando’s jealousy ( Augustin Viziru) , Don’s son. Like a predator, he will defend his property, especially since the Queen was offered by his powerful father when she was only 14 and he always perceived her as his woman and his slave . The love between the Queen and Cosmin is a love that must confront secrets that once revealed will destroy or save the gypsy world.

8 Source:www.cinemagia.ro

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In the Romanian world , Gigi Dumbrava (Florin Zamfirescu ) is even more emboldened to fight against the Gypsy. He suffered a heart transplant and he continues to overtly hate those he considers responsible for the disaster in both his family and his business. He can not erase what he feels : he was the victim of a horrible prank and would rather die than live in shame of having a gypsy heart in his chest. The marriage of his favorite daughter , Irina (Andreea Patrascu ), with Codrut( Stefan Denis ) was not a cause for joy. He is convinced that his daughter has ruined his life by by marrying a gypsy, even an educated one. He is no longer willing to be defeated by anyone or anything. Compositional elements of the characters Rome: traditional costumes , traditions, united family , devotion, obscure life , humor, pedantic, aggression , etc. .. Valence : Medium Frequency: average Resilience : Medium

F3 Series: State of Romania (2009-2010) Post TV: Acasa TV (Media Pro) Synopsis State of Romania - Student at the Sorbonne9 State and Flacara Potcovaru return. The most loved couple on the TV screen in Romania continues its adventures in Paris, City of Lights, with a new story in which unexpected plays an important role, and the humor is present at every step. Fresh student at the Sorbonne, State Potcovaru remained the same traditional gypsy. He returned to Paris as King of Beggars and is determined to bring order among his men. But an information provided by a beggar puts him on the trail of a daughter whose existence was unknown to him. Francoise, the unknown daughter, lives in Paris and is about to marry a respectable family man, unaware of her origins. In an attempt to meet her, State resorts to unusual methods to approach it, thus attracting the Flacara’s attention, his wife who came from Bucharest to pursue him and thus to put an end

9 Sursa: www.cinemagia.ro

to a possible extramarital affair. But an old threat is about to return from the past.

Jean Potier is a French policeman. He hopes that one day he will get his hands on the one he considered responsible for the death of one of his collegues. The occasion is provided by a random meeting with State Potcovaru, appearing in his path like a ghost from the past. Jean Potier is crushed by the thought of revenge. State's Race for life will begin in Paris, under unexpected consequences. Compositional elements of Roma characters: traditional costumes, traditions, united family, devotion, obscure life, humor, aggression, etc. .. Valence: Medium Frequency: average Resilience: Medium Pro TV, part of the Trust Media Pro (the consortium CME) was founded in 1995 and is distinguished as the most influential Romanian TV space10.

G) Programs dedicated to Roma G 1: TV program : European Rom TV post: TVR 1 Valence : positive Frequency: minimum Resilience : low Program Description 11:

10 Sursa: http://www.ascultalive.ro/trust-media-pro.html

11 Sursa: http://www.tvrplus.ro/emisiune-rom-european-22

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It's officially 535,137 souls, but Elijah Dincă, president of the National Agency for Roma (NAR), says " it is estimated that there are around two million Roma people. History tanks - slavery , the proletarian model, globalization - walked over their traditionally-nomadic culture. Yes, they have integration problems: access to education is limited , poor living conditions, unemployment, criminality , bearing their stigma at home and abroad . From 2005 onwards, using the tools of journalistic reportage, interview and documentary, European Rom program propose other ethnicities to have a look to the life and culture of Roma, beyond negative perceptions and prejudices. European Rom is the only television production analysing their problems - from education , social integration and lifestyle, to rights and obligations, public policy - reflecting both traditions and events in Roma communities. Every year, through dozens of editions , TVR team recorded stories of Roma communities in the country and abroad, sought to find out details of their social life directly from the source and through representatives of organizations that defend their rights . The topics addressed over time include cultural festivals (Rome Cult Fest ), communication campaigns, Roma insertion in the labor market , customs and traditional professions (blacksmiths, silversmiths, coppersmiths, currier), saints and protectors of Roma (Sara Kali ) integration or educational programs. Documentaries are complemented by interviews with Roma representatives, public institutions, NGOs , experts on integration policies. The producers are always looking for - and find - encouraging good things to say, from aid programs for Roma integration to educational programs. European Rom - produced in collaboration with the Media Monitoring Agency and with the support of the program SPER (Stop prejudices about Roma ) - talks about Roma life as you’ve have never known it before. The first step of integration is that of knowing and understanding the other. Take this step - you have nothing to lose, after all . Monica Becheriu journalist TVR +

G 2: TV show: Roma caravan / I was born in Romania TV station: OTV / Prima TV Valence: positive Frequency: minimum Resilience: low Program Description12: Prima TV shows you "I was born in Romania", a show with and about Roma, the most controversial minority in Romania. The actors Zita Moldovan and Sorin Sandu shows Roma beyond clichés, their history, traditions, their failures and successes.

"I was born in Romania" begins with "Info Roma", the most important news of the week, followed by the heading "Today's Roma, tomorrow’s Roma," a talk show with guests professionally and emotionally involved in activities that impact on Roma minority. The talkshow is moderated by Irina Ursu. Under the heading „I was born in Romania", which gives the name of the show, are presented some of the most successful Roma who proudly declare to belong to this ethnic group. Then comes the section "Did You Know ...?" that presents the least known episodes of the history of the Roma minority. The heading "Roma Questions" presents some of the most hardworking and talented Roma craftsmen. At the end of each edition, Roma songs,

recorded especially for the show, are broadcasted. Note: The program has existed for seven years, and, until the beginning of 2013, was entitled "Roma Caravan" and was broadcast weekly by the TV station OTV (2004-2013). The editorial project is funded by Pro Europa Roma League political party.

Main findings from the interviews

The people behind the agenda In this section, we make an incursion into the behind the scenes process of producing public messages on 12 Sursa: www.primatv.ro

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Roma. To identify mechanisms and scope that keep Roma person in the peripheral area of media agenda, we interviewed five experienced journalists and two representatives of the most important institutions habilitated to regulate and arbitrate the anti-discrimination area in the public space. We tried to extract information about journalists’ perception on their role and also of their colleagues’ role in generating representations of Roma. We also sought to find out if they are concerned about mitigating the negative image surrounding the Roma and have developed tools of editorial self control. Concerning the officials engaged in combating discrimination, we tried to find their general opinion about discrimination in the public space, but also about the tools they use in their efforts to limit the potentially discriminatory manifestations. The panel includes an interview with one of directors of the series "State of Romania" (2009), in which we gathered information about the ingredients used in the creation of the most picturesque and controversial Roma characters that Romanian televised culture produced in recent years: the Potcovaru family. George Lăcătuş is the editor of the newspaper “The dayly event” and has an experience of over 14 years in the media. Originally from Buzau, Lacatus arrived in the editorial office of a Bucharest newspaper thanks to a Roma journalists dedicated program, developed in 2000 by the Centre for Independent Journalism. It is recognized by peers for his fighting spirit when it comes to the fair representation of Roma. He believes that the most effective mechanisms to control discourse about Roma stereotype come from inside the editorial office. Lacatus assumed the role of "censor" in all four editorial offices he worked so far, where he managed to impose some minimum standards: proper use of the ethnonym "Roma" instead of Gypsy and more rigorous drafting of materials so as not to promote clichés or stereotyping arguments about Roma. Since 2009, , feeling that the editorial office was not sufficient to develop his activist side, George Lacatus has founded Roma Journalists Association in Romania. (RJAR) „In 2012, the editor of the newspaper Adevarul, Grigore Cartianu, wrote an editorial entitled "The gipsy putsch". The article draw a slightly forced parallel between the political situation in Romania and how Roma spoiled Romania’s image in France. A few sentences, that harmed and injured Roma representatives, were used. RJAR took action then, along with two other Roma organizations, Romani Criss and the Roma Civic Alliance in Romania. They send a petition to the National Council for Combating Discrimination. They asked the journalist to publicly apologize for having offended members of this ethnic group. I was one of those who advocated, before the Directors’ College of NCCD, the complaint of the three associations. I managed to convince everyone of the

NCCD Board that Grigore Cartianu wrote a racist editorial, prompting them to fine him.” "Even at present there is an editorial written by the current owner of the newspaper's Dayly event, and the editorial subject is the meeting of Romanian prime‒minister Ponta with a French minister who told the former "take your Roma home and integrate them" and the Prime Minister officially declared in a press conference that" Romania will bring them home and create jobs for them, in factories". Before he wrote, he came to ask me a technical issue related to Roma and used the word "Gypsy". And I said that the term "Gypsy" has a pejorative connotation, and if he wants to respect the members of this ethnic group, to use the word "Roma". I explained the difference between the word "Gypsy" and the word "Roma". He liked my courage and my explanation. Thus, if you search for that editorial, you see that he wrote in parenthesis "Roma, as my colleague suggested wording" Oana Dan is editor of the official website of national television news - TVR (www.tvr.info) and has nearly ten years experience in the media, during which time he worked on several editorial publications and important news agencies. In his editorial portfolio can be found, in particular, issues related to vulnerable groups and environmental protection, which gained her recognition in the community of journalists and several specialty awards. She is very passionate when she notices deviations of the Romanian press and in the public debate on minority groups. In the editorial office she is being careful that none of the materials that are published express stereotypical formulations, abusive and irrelevant associations. She does not understand the appetite of politicians, journalists and the general public for what she calls "non-issues" and "Romania's image abroad" or "ethnonym Rom vs Gypsy". She characteres Romanian media as full drop and de-professionalized and does not avoid tough terms when we describe some media managers and some journalists. She is convinced that the media can not even survive in its current form, focusing on encouraging tablodization and social division. She believes in alternative journalism projects dedicated to understanfing social phenomena, such as the latest project she developed. For three weeks, Oana Dan was in a Pentecostal Roma community near Bucharest, where she made several minidocumentaries within the European project "Colourfull but blind". The project is dedicated to the life of the Roma communities in six states in the Union EU. „The media is made up of people who are not aware of the depth of their prejudices and of their automatism of Roma stigmatization.” „There was a trend that correspondents, when reporting on Roma and Roma-related events, write "Gypsy" if the related action was negative.” „Journalism must have a civic dimension in the sense of completing the identity of minorities or less visible groups.”

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„I believe in that half of the formula which says that journalism gives voice to those who have no voice. Beyond informing, it's very important to give voice to those who have no voice. As in any society, and in Romania in general, minorities do not have no clearly heard, precised or supported voice.” „Many of the journalists' prejudices are the result of superficial education, and lack of concern for the understanding of the socio-cultural profile of the Roma.” „I hate very much journalists’ prejudice. (..) The big problem is that Romanian journalists are incompetent and illiterate.” „Mediatic Roma is the one who has stolen and eaten swans in Vienna, begging, stealing and making us look ridiculous in the world.” „It takes real contact with Roma to understand what are their real problems.” „The moment you walk in a Roma community and get to know them you can not stay with the same prejudices. You can not stay the same, something is changing in you. But here we are, talking about people who do not leave the office (na: journalists that do not document topics on the ground).” Irina Ursu has dedicated the last seven years to coordinating a special editorial product: the first show in Romania who is 100% dedicated to those who declare themselfs 100% Roma. Over time, the show produced and moderated by Irina Ursu, with the technical and financial support of Roma Civic Alliance of Romania, was broadcast by several TV stations with national coverage. The TV program " I was born in Romania" has a team of seven Roma and non-Roma editors, that bring weekly the most important information and events related to Roma. Even if the program is designed almost exclusively to promoting the positive examples, the producer says that the thorny issues are not avoided. Irina is realistic and believes in a slow but certain change of the Roma perceptions among the majority population. Also, she trust, that, over time, Roma will be able to have a positive perception of their belonging to this ethnic group and that, at some point, they will assume their identity without any restraint. The editorial Project " I was born in Romania" still stirs backlash among non-Roma viewers. However, Irina is satisfied that in the past seven years, the word "Gypsy" does not appear in discussions with family and friends. „The program " I was born in Romania" attempts to provide an alternative to the already established negative image of the Roma.” „As media labels, Roma are dirty Roma, Gypsies, thieves, criminals, they abandon their children, have many children, have palaces with towers, make impressive wealth by begging.” „I received many (n.a.-negative messages) including on guests of the program „ I was born in Romania" and where we only show Roma actually doing something, even wanting to change things, including among

ethnic Roma. Even against these people we receive messages of hate.” „The heavy heritage of negative stereotypes surrounding the Roma community is leading some members to deny their identity.” „A few times, though rarely, it happened that people whom I requested an interview would refuse from the start, telling me, in particular, that they are Roma, but they will not making this public. some fears: college buddies who might proove afterwards hostile or negative, coworkers and so on. For others, who assume being Roma, I noticed that they perceive themselfs as carrying a mission. Consider this as a kind of mission: to say that they are Roma, to show what kind of people they are and contribute to changing mentalities around on Roma.” Daniel Goace is the editor of the weekly satire “Kamikaze” and has 15 years experience in the media. He begun his madia career in the satire magazine, Academia Caţțavencu. He talks seriously about humor in the satire magazines in Romania, including jokes about Roma ethnicity. He states that satirical discourse about Roma has changed in recent years due to the influence of social campaigns that improved Roma image. Says that this kind of pressure on public discourse about Roma, has "educated". Moreover, with the expansion of the Internet as a forum for expression, he began to be very careful about what sorts of messages newspaper readers transmitted. For Daniel Goace, it is important that readers see the line between humor and hate. Just as quality newspapers should only host quality reviews and opinions. “Historically, there was no serious concern for the harmful potential of humor. The only criterion for validating jokes about Roma was the consensus of the editorial team.” “We didn’t gave much thought if little joke would harm. In no case was ill-will. The directing line, clearly, was not "we have to laugh about what they did" but "we have to laugh." “The humor quality mattered. Other criteria came second. For example, if we were politically correct. Obviously, Caţțavencu have never published jokes that were very bad. (...) We had a limit.” „Diversity of awareness-raising public campaigns on Roma discrimination had an impact, editors becoming more cautious and more aware of the contribution of their products over the public perception.” “Somehow, we begin a self- censorship process. We wouldn’t weite "Gypsy" throughout the text. We begun to realize that "Gypsy" has a pejorative meaning. And the formulations "Gypsies steal, rape, agress” disappeared. The self-censorship didn’t exist before. If the joke was good, even if it contained that kind of phrase, it passed the test.” “ Encouraging virtual racism may prove profitable initially, but in the long term, it decreases the credibility and the quality the product.”

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“The traffic is an the advantage of the open comments. But it is grime. (...) As a general overview, it’s not well-perceived when you have an article with grime comments.” Delia Panait is a radio Guerrilla producer for nearly ten years and she’s proud that she succeeded in incorporating topics related to human rights in the editorial meetings. Do not take any subject come from news agencies before it’s cleaned up of stereotypes or without secondary documentation. Believes that media people need more education on everything related to human rights and respect for other members of society. Unlike previous years, she sees a small blur in the way Roma are represented in public, but she is aware that the process is lengthy. Anyway, she long assumed two identities that she brings to the newsroom every day: journalist and activist. „Journalists’ prejudices and lack of education are primary sources of the stereotypical representations of Roma.” „On the ground Information, if just taken from the reporter or news agency, comes as biased as possible. From the simple error which everybody does: To write Roma with two "r". It's true, I wasn’t so careful and sensitive until I made specialised studies. (...) Therefore, I allow miself to say that I „feel” when a story is charged with a cultural load, heavy at least.” “Until two or three years, everything that came out in the public space as negative, ostracized, horrible behavior was automatically assimilated to "Gypsy" behaviour.” “We need education at home, empathy. (...) I feel that in school, we should be taught what is empathy and attention to the Other.” “The public should be warned they operate improperly with the status of "majority" and must be provoked, through debate, to mentally switch roles with Roma.” “Politically, I can declare myself of Roma origin. Politically, I am entitled to say anything. But those people are born into a Roma community. You can not judge them. It's like I would judge you because you're Orthodox. Just because you are the superior majority.” “If you know the landmarks of the target audience, you can touch some sensitive strings to engage reflexivity. The least. Attitude does not change.”

Laura Georgescu

began her

television career in 1994, and since the end of 2012 is the new president of the National Broadcasting Council. She is satisfied and even optimistic regarding Roma representation in the audiovisual space. Considers that Romania has one of the most modern audiovisual and anti-discrimination legislation. Obviously, the council is aware that Roma discrimination is still a problem with rooted cultural resorts. “The legal framework of the audio-visual environment is modern and flexible, inspired by the practice of European countries, tested and approved in terms of multiculturalism.” “In audio-visual, things have evolved most rapidly towards normality due to acute requirement of the European Commission. (...) There are clear trends that are beginning to disappear. We’ve learned to abstain. We are EU members for seven years, we learned to adapt, we learned multiculturalism, we understand what harmony in diversity means.” „For greater accuracy, the institution has created a platform for collaboration with the National Council for Combating Discrimination.”

“For at least two years, we have formed an expert on such matters of discrimination, he follows the news and debates. If there is such a matter, we request an immediate monitoring line or ask a NCCD expert to analyze the material.” “In the audio-visual, ethnic discrimination is not a major problem, just because CNA applied very harsh fines whenever such deviations occurred. The audio-visual things are absolutely fine and controlled, precisely because the domain is managed by two authorities: CNA and NCCD. Together we share responsibilities. We are responsible for the producers’ allegations and NCCD is responsible for the guests’ allegations.”

Since 2005, Csaba Asztalos is president of the National Council for Combating Discrimination (NCCD), now being the second consecutive term. For the first time in recent history of Romania, during his mandate, Romanian president has been sanctioned for discriminatory statements against Roma (Traian Băsescu, 2007). He doesn’t like to beard on this topic, because in his view, NCCD should not be a policeman but a facilitator in society. He considers the exposure of and the debate about the discrimination phenomenon in Romanian society are the best results of the institution he leads. “A debate on the effects of discrimination is needed in order to think the mecanisms to fight discrimination.” “Until 2005 we denied that we have problems of discrimination. I managed to bring this issue to the surface. Because we need to deal with our own problems. (...) I am optimistic. Yearly, the perception

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(na: on the Roma ethnicity) improves by one percent. About 10 percent in 10 years. Addressing these complaints (a.n.: the racist statements of public officials) led to the opening of the debate on Roma ethnicity. If the institution has managed to remain objective, regardless of the quality of the defendant, and was able to explain the reasoning consistently to help the society understand. I managed to generate debate. There are different ways to break down stereotypes. Sanction only generate reactions. (...) We must develop a culture of debate.” “Despite the tense social climate, in Romania, there are no violent racist actions.” “We have a happy situation. We, in Romania, in 2011, I had one incident in Harghita, but not violent incidents. It is the only state in the region which had no violent incidents. There is a regression in the region.” Vladimir Anton is a young theater and film director who, in 2009, had the opportunity to join the team MediaPro Pictures, during the longest art project in Romania: the first Romanian soap opera inspired by the life of the Roma community. Anton has directed the last part of the trilogy13 dedicated Potcovaru family when the characters of State and Flacara Potcovaru had already reached a peak of popularity among the public soap opera. The director claims that the show's longevity was largely provided by the main actors performance, but also by the novelty offered by this tragi-comic foray into Roma culture. Characters, he argues, are a Sumum of qualities and defects extracted from anthropological and sociological analysis of traditional Roma communities, from the periphery of Bucharest. Although the public agenda at the time, was dominated by controversial issues related to Roma (especially international reactions towards Romanian Roma migrants), the director credits the show as having no political stake. The main reason why the show was produced was strictly related to the exoticism and the spectacular offered by Roma ethnicity and culture in Romanian society. So the trilogy is not aimed at caricaturing or embellishing ethic Roma’s representation. “Products do not change cultural perceptions. They are dedicated exclusively to consumption.” „I do not know what type of media product can have an impact now, change perceptions, because our audience is pretty amorphous. The episodes where we problematized a bit didn’t worked very well. Because it requires a type of engagement and thought. Here, the viewer wants to be like a sponge that gets some music, a story and nothing more.” „The production plan included a concern not to feed the additional negative perceptions about Roma ‒ self-censorship.”. 13 The trilogy comprises aproximativelly 450 episoade, distributed in three distinct series: „Gipsy Heart” (2007 - 2008), „The queen” (2008 ‒ 2009) and „State of Romania” (2009 ‒ 2010)

„The humor was seen as a formula to mitigate negative perceptions.” „I have had several stories along the way where I think the writers have done their job well enough, (...). they took into account of certain events. Sure, we treat them in a comic key. The comedy has a pretty simple principle: any defect becomes an effect. Real comedy treat events in comic style, with no prejudice or malicious interpretation.” „Producers have tried to counter negative stereotypes by opposing them positive moral traits.(a.n.: about the main characters of the series) The head of the Roma Mafia family is powerful and influential, a pimp, a loan shark. Somehow, all the cultural stereotypes about Roma were in him. But this character was very useful, including for the Roma target, because above all these labels he had a moral world, a world of values. He had honor, loyalty.” „Roma ethnicity and culture are bidding from an imagological point of view and can be profitable if they are "wrapped" in a marketable cultural product.” „In television, although I knew very passionate and interesting, intelligent and educated people, the principle stays the same as mentioned once by Sorin Ovidiu Vantu: "In Romania, television is only support for advertising." And then, we are only searching for spectacular, and the Roma, with all that belongs to it - fashion, traditions or language - has huge spectacular character.”

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Chapter 2 | Stereotypes, perception and discrimination General introduction: on the applied methods and basic and basic information on “open meetings” 1. Context The present qualitative research is part of the project BEAMS: European Attitudes Towards Breaking down Migrant / Minority Stereotypes, financed by the European Commission, Priority 4.3 "Combating racism, xenophobia and anti-Semitism", implemented in Romania by Fundatia Dezvoltarea Popoarelor . The overall objective of the project is to contribute to EU policy against racism by expanding the scope of the analysis of mechanisms of construction of stereotypes about minorities (Roma and Sinti, migrants, ethnic / religious groups) in different areas of popular culture and through the change of racist societal trends, to create cultural products that debunks stereotypes, promote intercultural understanding and increase tolerance in the EU. Specific objectives: • Knowledge base and analyze stereotypes in popular culture • Understand the impact of stereotypes in the public perception and societal racist trends • Awareness raising and education on combating all forms of racism. 2. Objectives of the research This research aims to collect information on the role of popular cultural products in the construction of the Roma ethnic stereotypes that can lead to discriminatory behavior. Specific Objectives: • Identify concerns that the majority of the population have in relation to Roma ethnicity and the stages of construction of ethnic prejudices and stereotypes • Identify the ethnic stereotypes in terms of their impact on social and professional life and careers. • Identify barriers to the labor market, which can cause underemployment. 3. Methodology The study was conducted using focus group method. The results of this research, like all qualitative research, are not nationally representative for the entire population of Romania. The results should be used as

such, solely in order to explain certain behaviors that occur in the studied group. The selection of respondents was based on ethnicity, age and education level. Three focus groups were conducted: two with Romanian ethnic people (self-reported) and a focus group with Roma people (self-reported). The average duration of a focus group was 1h 30 '. Data presented in this report describe the attitudes, beliefs and values frequently manifested by individuals included in this research, which can be defined as a pattern of behavior. 4. Data on participants in group discussions See next page

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FG 1 Gender Age Residence Education Professional status 1. M 27 Bucharest Higher education IT programmer 2. F 41 Bucharest Higher education Economist 3. F 34 Bucharest Higher education Employed Higher

education

4. F 36 Bucharest Higher education Pre-primary school teacher 5. F 32 Bucharest Secondary education Interior decorator 6. F 34 Bucharest Higher education Taxi company dispatcher 7. F 31 Bucharest Secondary education Textile/clothing

technologist

8. M 41 Bucharest Secondary education Occupational Safety Technician

9. M 37 Bucharest Secondary education Cashier 10. M 44 Bucharest Secondary education Auto Painter 11. M 32 Bucharest Higher education Assistent manager FG 2 Gen Age Residence Education Professional status 1. M 39 Bucharest Secondary education Employed, Security

Company

2. M 46 Bucharest Secondary education Toy store administrator 3. F 51 Bucharest Secondary school Weigher 4. F 37 Bucharest Higher education Professor 5. F 39 Bucharest Higher education Lawyer 6. M 39 Bucharest Higher education Engineer 7. F 38 Bucharest Higher education InspectorLabour Ministery 8. F 45 Bucharest Secondary education Clerk 9. F 51 Bucharest Higher education Economist 10. M 35 Bucharest Higher education Lawyer 11. M 52 Bucharest Higher education Engineer 12. M 51 Bucharest Secondary education Unemployed FG 3 Gen Age Residence Education Professional status 1. F 44 Bucharest Secondary education Worker 2. F 43 Bucharest Higher education Engineer 3. M 50 Bucharest Higher education Professor 4. M 20 Bucharest Secondary education Unemployed

5. M 26 Bucharest Secondary education Barber 6. F 25 Bucharest Secondary education Cashier 7. M 50 Bucharest Secondary education Taxi driver

From production to perception Behavioral patterns in family and school Family Since childhood, majority of respondents of Romanian ethnicity were warned by parents to the supposed danger represented by the Roma. Roma were characterized as children thieves, dirty, disease carriers, etc. Roma represented for Romanian parents a way to control their children, who were threatened with alienation from family, if they were not obedient: "I give the Gypsies, if you are naughty". Thus, fear and rejection reaction against Roma people were present from early childhood. Even if Romanian children had Roma playmates, the feeling of rejection did not disappeared. Selection of relevant quotes, Romanian ethnic focus groups: "[Parents told us] to dodge, because the woman with the big skirts would steal us. (..) Over years it was

proved that they steal children and sell them abroad. (FG1, 41, economist) "[Parents told us] gypsies would steal you if you're not good." (FG2, 37, teacher) "[Parents told us] When you see them, go into the courtyard, for they will steal you." (FG2, 52, engineer) “[Parents tell us that] a gypsy is not gypsy, unless he steals. "(FG2, 39, lawyer) "[Parents told us]: If you're not good, I’ll give you to the Gypsies." (FG1, 34, dispatcher) "[Parents told us] to guard against them because they have lice. This is true, also today "(FG2, 34, employed, higher education) On the other hand, Roma children were encouraged by their parents to play with Romanian ethnics, the latter often rejecting them. Marginalized at play or in school, frustration appeared inevitable among Roma children. Selection of relevant quotes, Roma focus group: "We had to stand ten feet from Romanians that say about us that we have lice." (FG3, 43, engineer)

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“We want our children to have a connection with the Romanians, we were marginalized in school. "(FG3, 50, a taxi driver) School For Roma, school was not an environment where you find comfort in dealing with Romanian majority population. Even if some of them say that teachers generally do not distinguish between Roma and Romanians, advices received from the family accompanied these relations. Selection of relevant quotes, Romanian ethnic focus groups: "- I had two colleagues, two boys, very good. But we are girls and our parents taught us not to have Gypsies friends, to stay away from them. Not to mixt with them, not to make other Romanians laugh at us. That was in the countryside. " - (Sociologist) In what way to make other Romanians laugh at you? - It was a shame to have a boyfriend, a relationship with Gypsies. "(FG2, 39, lawyer) However, Roma believe that the situation has improved since 1989. Roma aged over 40 years have strong memories regarding discrimination in school compared to the young. They recall that they were sent in the last row or that special classes were formed for them. Selection of relevant quotes, Roma focus groups: "At school I was placed in the last row and marginalized" (FG3, 50, taxi driver) "There was the class of Romanian and the Gypsy class, we were rejected and marginalized." (FG3, 43, engineer) "Teachers did not differentiated us, but our colegues did so because they were taught at home by parents." (FG3, 24, cashier) "The first four classes was more difficult. When we argued, colleagues said: do not play with the Gypsy." (FG3, 20 years, unemployed) "Teachers did not mistreated us. Collegues did. They were taught at home by their parents. Do not play with the Gypsy "(FG3, 43, worker) The current situation Personal experiences in social life In general, Romanian ethnics do not want any contact with Roma minority and the rupture between the two groups was created over several generations. Lack of contact led to increased fear of the majority towards Roma. Barriers to interethnic relations Fear of Roma

The most common feeling among respondents, when referring Romanian Roma, is fear. The general impression is that 90% of Roma are delinquent or possible initiators of delinquent actions. Selection of relevant quotes, Romanian ethnic focus groups: "I try to avoid them as much as I can and if you do not interact with them, you do not have a bad experience" (FG2, 37, teacher) "Do we discuss the exception or the rule? The rule is that 30-40 years ago, they were not as visible as they are now, they did not bother me, they bother me now! They are visible in the street, in urban transport and always with a loud and aggressive behavior. And not only verbally aggressive... urban transport controllers pretend not seeing them, most ticket inspectors avoid asking Gypsies for their ticket for Gypsies take the knife out! That's reality "(FG2, 51 years, unemployed) "Me, personally, I grew up with grandparents and they didn’t warn me against Roma, I have Roma friends, they are morally cleaner than some Romanians. Obviously we cannot generalize. My guess is that having a negative attitude toward them make them worse, though I admit I'm also afraid of them and always carry a pepper spray in my bag. "(FG1, 34, dispatcher) “How to change your perception [nn against Roma] while 90% of these people are like that [nn want to steal]. “(FG2, 35, lawyer). Lack of confidence Besides the feeling of fear, lack of trust in this ethnic group is quite widespread among Romanian participants in this research. From the first contact, Roma are perceived as susceptible of possible criminal acts. Selection of relevant quotes, Romanian ethnic focus groups: "Only a fool woulds take a cab driven by a gypsy. I do not do it. "(FG2, 50 years, unemployed) "Why do not admit that when you're in trolley or tram you do pay attention to your bag?" (FG1, 41, economist) Non-acceptance of the Other’s traditions For Romanians, Roma traditions are unacceptable to modern society. Traditional Roma clothing, their habits, are mocked by the majority. Selection of relevant quotes, Romanian ethnic focus groups: "How can they finish compulsory education, if they have children at 12? They have some medieval traditions and customs, their traditions are considered pedophilia in Western countries. "(FG2, 50 years, unemployed) "If they could change their behavior and style of dress, we could hire them." (FG1, 41, economist)

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No one feels protected by the law Romanian ethnics do not feel protected by the state, they believe that political leaders have made a deal with Roma community leaders to get their votes, and they are no longer subject to state laws. They also accuse the authorities that they do not have the courage to apply the law. Selection of relevant quotes, Romanian ethnic focus groups: "Here Iliescu did mistakes. (...) He recounted that he lived between Gypsies and his friends are gypsies. And he gave them all the gold. Take it brothers, I am Iliescu! ... Yes, for votes. (...) And now Basescu's their brother. " "I do not have anything against them, but you get close to them and you cannot stand them anymore." (FG1, 41, economist) "They have their mafia. Gypsy Mafia, global gypsy mafia. When they’re watching you, it's very hard to escape. Authorities, if you go to them, would’t help you. Their courage comes from the fact that they have the ultimate say. (FG1, 41, technician) The fear and the feeling of being abandoned by those who should protect them, make the majority intolerant towards Romanian Roma and their speech becomes racist to the extreme. In some cases, Romanians get to be more tolerant towards the Romanian deliquents rather than the Roma ones. Selection of relevant quotes, Romanian ethnic focus groups: "And especially when you hear that a gipsy killed somebody, you feel like you're going to kill that gipsy. To finish with them. If you hear that a Romanian killed, you are thinking he is going to jail and that he has a lifetime to regret what he did. "(FG1, 34, employed, higher education) "We can not change them. Or we can, but you know how, right? (Aswer from another participant: kill them.) To kill them. Or, well, to apply some very tough laws like Ceausescu or Antonescu. Dude, if they do not do it, I butcher them. "(FG1, 32, higher education, assistant manager). "Gypsies are multiplying like rats" (FG1, 32, graduate, assistant manager). At same time, the majority is more tolerant of Roma people as a result of direct contact with them: those who have Roma friends, or emotional relationship with Roma or those who have had work Roma colleagues at work. But in general, cases of "honest and hardworker" Roma are considered exceptions, isolated in a community perceived as delinquent. Selection of relevant quotes, Romanian ethnic focus groups: "At one point, I stood in Crângaşi, I had a gypsy neighbor, but I had no problems with her, she was

single, elderly, she needed something she came to me and I helped her." (FG2, 39, engineer) "I had two gypsies collegues at work, they never offended me and I worked five years with them, I had a good opinion about them... they were very nice. ". (FG2, 39, lawyer) Roma ethnics feel the fear of the majority, but most of the respondents hope to improve relations, although they do not see any obvious solutions. They live with a deep sense of segregation that leads to reactions ranging from intimidation toward the majority to revolt. Also, Roma said that there are laws against discriminatory treatment, but they are not observed. They feel abandoned by the state and their representatives and believe themselves to be manipulated to get votes. "Unfortunately, in Romania, there's still racial hatred between Romanian and gypsies, I was in England and there are all kinds of races and they do not hate each other." (FG3, 50, a taxi driver) "A Romanian between Gypsies can live ‒ the reverse is impossible, a gypsy among Romanian, never. He has no chance. (FG3, 44, worker) "There was a study that Gypsies will be the majority in 50 years. (...) You, Romanians , are generally making fun of us, refuse to employ us, etc.. and we at our turn, if we will remember, we can do the same to you. But Gypsies have a heart. "(FG3, 26, barber) "They're all [nn politicians] at Cioabă’s funeral. They need votes. "(FG3, 50, teacher) "It breaks my heart for my children and I say that the elder one, even though he has three quarters of Romanian blood and has a special education, he will always be perceived as “other” and he may not marry a blond woman. (...) because he is a Gypsy. It's like a label on your forehead and you have to take it with you into the ground. "(FG3, 50, engineer) Personal experiences at the workplace Those who have Roma work colleagues and had direct contact with them, are saying that their relationships were ordinary, like those with Romanians, and have a higher tolerance to these particular cases, not necessarily to ethnic Roma in general . Selection of relevant quotes, Romanian ethnic focus groups: "I work with them, especially with men. In general, customers who encounter them are more reluctant. "(FG1, 34, taxi company dispatcher) "I had colleagues Gypsy and I didn’t have any problem with them, they worked (...) It was a good relationship with them. We've argueg, there can’t only be milk and honey, but it was a good relationship with them. But Gypsy's Gypsy, you have to behave like a Gypsy with them. And to be tougher. "(FG2, 51, engineer)

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"I had two fellow gypsies, they have never insulted me and I worked five years with them, I had a good opinion about them ... So they were very nice. ". (FG2, 39, lawyer)

From perception to attitudes Ethnic stereotypes In general, Romanian respondents have a good opinion about Romanian as a people. They think about them as kind-hearted, friendly, tolerant, smart, hospitable, honest etc. In very few cases (4 people out of 23) were mentioned negative attributes, such as slicks, corrupt, thieves, etc.. Participants in this research have a good opinion about the ethnic Germans in Romania. Hungarians in Romania were characterized rather by negative attributes. Roma have collected the most negative features, the positive ones almost missing. One person out of 23 ethnic Romanian participants said that Roma are workers, hospitable and kind, referring strictly to a personal experience with a Roma family.

Romanian participants about Romanian people: Positive Negative

Kind-hearted, warm, loving, kind, friendly

Tolerant Adaptable Workers

Inventive, spontaneous, smart Good hosts, welcoming,

hospitable Compliant Beautiful Honey

Their history, culture, education

Sociable, cheerful Brave

Good traditional food Beautiful traditional costumes

Straight, honest Smart

Generous Householders Optimistic

Commitment, solidarity Different

Entrepreneurs

Thieves Perverts

Inhuman . illiterate . Weak .

Obnoxious . Corrupt .

Susceptible . Unfriendly . Jealous . Coward .

Superficial . Carping, spies . Traditional .

Sly .

Romanian participants about Saxons: Positive Negative

- Workers, diligent - civilized

- Honest, fair - Serious, sober

- punctual

- materialistic - cold - tough

- individualists - surly

- formalist - strong - severe - History

- civilization - Impact on society

- smart - firm

- Team spirit - Traditionalists, families

- united - peaceful

- selfish

Romanian participants about Hungarian minority Positive Negative - Thrifty

- Special education - Hard worker - Responsible

Bad-hearted Hard, cold, harsh, rigid

Nasty Cold

-Tough Ultra-nationalists, racists Other principles, other

education Bad language

Rude (when traveling abroad)

Individualists Ugly

Arrogant Challenging Revengeful

Romanian participants about Roma Positive Negative Good

Good hosts Workers

Wicked, mischievous, aggressive

Thieves, bandits Perverts Inhuman Illiterate Weak Nasty

Romanian participants about Roma Positive Negative

Corrupt Susceptible

No culture, no studies Do not want to change

their habits No obligation, independent

Rude Gipsy camp

Customs, habits that could stir anyone’s curiosity

nomadic rules Quacks Noisy Lazy

Know only to make children Beggars

United (not in a good way)

People of the wind Ordinary

They embarrass

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Romanians Shabby

Poor / rich

Ethnic Romanian about Ethnic Roma: Gypsies are more united than Romanians.

! Gypsies stink. ! Gypsies are illiterate. ! Gypsies are rich. ! Gypsies will not change. ! Gypsies will not work. ! Gypsies are very noisy, aggressive.

"Even if they do not know each other, they are united." (FG1, 34, employed, higher education) "You should know that a gypsy is more friendly than a Romanian." (FG2, 46, store manager) 'Gypsies don’t steel alone. "(FG2, 50 years, unemployed) "They have a peculiar odor, clearly. They may use anything, even Dolce & Gabbana. (...) The Gypsies, Arabs have a distinct odor. "(FG1, 34, dispatcher) "They do not wash, but they also have their specific smell." (FG2, 35, lawyer) “That's their style, there is no solution. You cannot attach them to their benches at school and force them to learn! (FG1, 34, dispatcher)” “Their aggressiveness is above average. And it's not normal. But it’s genetic.” (FG2, 50 years, unemployed) "They abound in riches of all kinds. Including the beggars. We saw it on TV. I work for a month for nothing and they go every evening to the restaurant. And I can not go with my wife and child in a weekend in the mountains. "(FG1, 41, technician) "Yes, they are people, good are bad .... but a Gypsy is a Gypsy" (FG2, 52, engineer) "They are very noisy. Where they (Roma) are, it is very noisy. "(FG1, 36, teacher). Roma have not accepted the exercise to state the positive and negative attributes for each ethnicity, the invoqued reason being that "people are different, good and bad, regardless of ethnicity," and you can not differentiate between ethnic groups. However, compared with ethnic Romanians, they think about themselves that they are householders, more tolerant and kind-hearted. Roma about themselves: Roma put their soul into everything they do. Roma are closer to their children. Roma are more tolerant. Roma steal because they’re in need, because thery are hungry. Romanians steel for money. " A Romanian does not have the patience of a Gypsy to work the metal until he gives it a shape. in any case, you'll not see a Romanian blacksmith. But Gypsy's

learned to work the iron until he get what his soul desires. "(FG3, 43, engineer) "You'll never see a gypsy rape her own child. With Romanians, you’ll see a lot of cases like that. Not with the Gypsies. For us, family is a holy thing. "(FG3, 26, barber) "Perhaps we put more soul into everything. In life and death and family. We give everything we have to our children. While for them [an Romanians] is the opposite: to do for themselves, to buy for themselves. "(FG3, 43, engineer) 6.3.1 Stereotypes on profession Most of the people who participated in the discussions believe that ethnicity is an important factor in employment. Ethnic Romanian believe that employer’ attention should be increased when interviewing Roma because they are not to be trusted. Most Romanian respondents would not hire ethnic Roma in their own company, even if they were competent in the field. Romanian majority population that who took part in the research are aware that this constitutes discrimination against Roma. On the other hand, they declare themselves outraged by the circumstances in which an ethnic Romanian with darker skin color is not employed because he is taken for a Roma ethnic. For them, rather this situation represents discrimination (a Romanian who is mistakenly considered Roma) and not the discrimination against Roma themself because they consider that grounds for non-employment are justified. Selection of relevant quotes, Romanian ethnic focus groups: "I came from the country to get a job here in Bucharest, I had setbacks. I’m from Oltenia are my skin is little more darker. I have suffered in life because of skin color. "(FG2, years, weigher). "After all she's a special case. Do you know why? It's like blacks in America, she was judged because of her skin color. Attention, she is not Roma. (...) That's not normal. (...) This is racism. I’m the first to exclude Roma, but now, after I listened to her, I would inform myself to be sure that someone of color is not in the same situation as her, for example. Because otherwise, I would act based on prejudices. Do not judge her by her color and ask for her ID to see if she’s Roma. After that, I judge."(FG2, 50 years, unemployed) "I have met people who are creole, but they have no accent. They tried to get a job and were told << No, sorry, you are Roma. >> And that says <I’ll show you the birth certificate, I give you what you want, how can you tell me that? >>. So the man had nothing to do with gypsies. "(FG1, 32, dispatcher). Things unacceptable in employment: • Traditional Roma clothes.

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• Roma in decision-making, confidence positions (not until they prove that they are honest). • Roma in leadership positions, even if they are qualified. Romanian majority point of view about The professions suitable for Roma, from Romanian majority perspective, do not involve too advanced studies: sweepers, cleaning personnel, construction workers, occupations involving rather physical labor. Selection of relevant quotes, Romanian ethnic focus groups: "As an employer, I would not hire a gypsy. Of course not. Even if he had studied. "(FG1, 36, teacher) "However, there are very few who want to work." (FG1, 36, teacher) "If an employer gave a chance to a Roma citizen and he blew it, he’ll give another a second chance, but not a third time. Third time is too much. He might not give a second one. "(FG2, 35, lawyer) "I think a Roma will become a bank manager, even if he had studies." (...) We will not get rid of prejudices. We are taught to generalize, no matter what. I give you in writing that if anyone will have access to study he would not get more than a job at the restaurant. "(FG1, 34, dispatcher). "We're afraid to employ them, prejudices act first, we are a nation full of prejudices." (FG2, 50 years, unemployed) "I would hire him, but I would inform myself about someone of color." (FG2, 51, economist) "If you want my personal opinion, I, at first, would not put them in positions of responsibility. I would not risk it. For example, I would not hire them as a driver, to transport fruits and vegetables. He might ruin the vegetables untill he reaches the destination "(FG2, 35, lawyer) On the other hand, almost all Roma respondents had and have problems of employment and their general belief is that ethnicity influences their employment status. Roma recounts cases where, after submitting their CVs, are being selected for interviews, employers change their mind after learning that they are Roma. Roma think they have limited access to the following functions: - Officials, involving a higher occupational status (for example, banks) - Front-desk functions, with contact with the public - visibility Functions (TV) Selection of relevant quotes, Roma focus groups: “Last week, I was asked in an interview: Are you Roma? And I said: I am a man, like you. I’ve submitted my CV, but I had no answer. "(FG3, 20 years, unemployed) "Romanians are motivated by racial hatred, if you’re Gypsy and you want to get a job it's hard, once they

see your dark skin, they send you home." (FG3, 26, barber) "An uneducated Romanian is selected faster than an uneducated Gypsy." "I had an interview together with a Romanian candidate. She finished eighth classes, I graduated a high school specialized in Chemistry. They needed Chemist technicians. I have a diploma. I was not hired but she was. (...) “It's very hard. You are talking on the phone and when they see you, they send you home. "(FG3, 24, cashier) Roma say Turkish employers are hiring Roma people, the explanation being skin color resemblance. Selection of relevant quotes, Roma focus groups: "We're lucky to be employed by the Turks. They accept black and white, and green, and blue (laughs). We are lucky to have the Turks. (FG3, 44, worker) Chinese do not employ us: you gypsy, you thief (...) Go, you, Gypsy. (FG3, 24, cashier) 7. The role of the media in maintaining or reducing stereotypes that lead to discrimination Romanian respondents believe that Roma are too present in the audio-visual space, especially in PRO TV Romania TV productions and they accuse television to be only interested in gaining an audience. In general, Romanian respondents say that they hear negative news about Roma, but that they reflect the reality of the Roma community. Asked about positive news about Roma, very few respondents were able to remember: "Yeah, 3-4 years ago, there was a gypsy student, in France." The news placing Roma in an unfavorable light reconfirm the already formed prejudices about Roma majority, and forge the rejection reaction towards them. Most agree that the media should also promote positive news about the Roma, being convinced that there are positive aspects, but they have no way to acknowledge them in other circumstances. Respondents in focus groups Romanian believe in the educational role of media, but consider that it could not have an effective role in improving the perception on Roma ethic group. From their point of view, the Roma should strive to "Romanized" and thus be tolerated in the community. Selection of relevant quotes, Romanian ethnic focus groups: "The problem is the media. After the 90s, they are very visible in the media. The media exaggerated a little, but start out with some real cases. I can not go out of my country because they say Romanians are gypsies. In Italy, I’m afraid to speak Romanian. "(FG2, 50 years, unemployed) "We show all their weddings, those news are best rated, which means that this is the level of the people who follow them, otherwise they would not run them." (FG1, 34, dispatcher)

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"So if you see in a newspaper that Luminita Cioabă wrote something, you pass by, but if you see that King Cioaba has crowned I don’t know not know which son, then you read about it." (FG1, 37 years, auto painter) "Actually, the issue is that most TV channels will give us want we want." (FG2, 35, lawyer) "I don’t think that it should come from the mass media, primarily it should come from above, from politicians, they should be integrated somehow, jobs should be created for them." (FG2 , 37, teacher) "The media is meant to inform, you can not force integration. And second, if they are not interested, you struggle for nothing. "(FG2, 50 years, unemployed) Similary, Roma think that television reflects reality, but they say it is not correct to refer to ethnicity when a story is told. They consider legitimate the majority’ rejection reaction, as a result of negative media coverage of Roma. Suggested solutions to improve the image of the Roma community participants: • Keeping a balance between positive and negative news • Improving the image of Roma by success stories • Seris that depict the life and traditions of the Roma (as the TV series "Gypsy Heart") • TV Shows that promote a real communication between the two ethnic groups • TV Shows about the life of the Roma community • Employment of Roma people in TV stations to show that "even a Roma can do what Romanians do" Selection of relevant quotes, Roma focus group: "They debate the worst news. So it's normal for Romanian children to wave this flag of hatred between Romanian and Gypsy. (...) So it's normal that Romanian children stay away from us. "(FG3, 50, taxi driver) "Since early age, children are taught: do not play with ... do not walk with ... I do not know how you could make this public. To teach a child, since he makes his first steps that we are equal. Me and you. We are people. "(FG3, 50, engineer) 7.1. Mass cultural production and their role in maintaining or combatting a culture of discrimination During the group discussions, pictures of several episodes centered on Roma community in TV programs and series ("In puii mei," "Mondenii" and "Gypsy Heart") were shown. Satire TV shows "In puii mei" and "Mondenii" Romanian Ethnic consider these productions un-educational, "tacky", but representative of the Roma culture. From their perspective, Roma may be satirized, unlike other ethnic groups in Romania, so TV choose to do shows about them. Selected Quotes Romanian ethnic group:

"It is a satirical show about Roma community inspired by reality, unfortunately. We want it to be invented, but it is not, unfortunately." (FG2, 50 years, unemployed) "I think their nation is watching these TV shows." (FG2, 39, lawyer) "Why not make TV series about Hungarians or Saxons? Because there's nothing to satirize about them. The German is German and knows only to work and he’s became what he is through work. While here, you get some of that laugh that they will not work, it's their satire. "(FG2, 50 years, unemployed) On the other hand, Roma consider that these satire shows are annoying and they say that they do not reflect the reality of Roma communities. Selected Quotes Roma ethic group: "These programs are mocking the image of Roma. These are our traditions, our clothes, with frills. These are long-lasting traditions, even if we, at this table, do not carry them (...) They mock our traditions"(FG3, 43, engineer) "I think they are exaggerated and counter-educational, but I’m aware that this is the media. That keeps them alive. "(FG3, 20 years, unemployed) "In TV shows, gypsies only get the parts of the thief, stupid, the uneducated. Everything that’s ugly."(FG3, 50, taxi driver) TV series "Gypsy Heart" Some of the ethnic Romanian who watched this soap opera consider it demeaning to Romanian actors "to play Gypsy roles." Some of them say about this television series that is not educational and it is a bad example for their children. On the other hand, the telenovela is seen as a factor that helped to improve the perception about the Roma community. Selected Quotes Romanian ethnic groups: "I consider it a good combination between their traditions and their outfit and it’s appropriate to put them into a film." (FG1, 34, dispatcher) "I think that people began to like gypsies after this telenovela." (FG1, 31, employed, secondary education) "I think they want us to get use to their habits, their traditions, their behavior, clothing." (FG2, 35, lawyer) “The tragedy is elsewhere. Some major actors like George Dinică,-Draga Olteanu Matei, are seriously compromising themselfs by playing in series like that. "(FG2, 50 years, unemployed) Roma respondents think the show "Gypsy Heart" that brought an important contribution to improving the perception of Roma and, on the other hand, was educational for ethnic Roma, who have also learned new things about Roma traditions. Selected Quotes Roma group: "It was educational in two ways: for Romanians to understand that they can live among Gypsies and for Gypsies to live among Romanians." (FG3, 50, teacher)

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"Interestingly, I’ve seen something new to me. And showed me things of our past. For me, it is something new. "(FG3, 20 years, unemployed) Perceived contribution of Roma to popular culture The Romanian and Roma respondents know the Roma people who have contributed over time to the mainstream popular culture. For Romanian ethnic, the representatives are: Musicians: Ion Voicu14, Madalin Voicu15, Damian Draghici16, Alex Velea17, Pepe18, Connect-R19, Andrei Mihalache20, Romica Puceanu21 Actors: Jean Constantin22, Romică Ţociu23 Writers: Luminita Cioabă24, not consider a personality "When Basescu went to Cioabă, he gave an interview and asked journalists if they read any of Luminţa Cioabă’poems? She is a Roma poet, but no one heard of her, only Basescu, she is not Eminescu or Slavici."(FG2, 50 years, unemployed) For Roma, representatives are: Music: Johnny Răducanu25, Madalin Voicu26, Aura Urziceanu27, Toni Iordache28 Acting: Jean Constantin29, Puiu Calinescu30, Stefan Banica senior31, Stefan Banica junior32

14 Ion Voicu - famous Romanian violinist (1923-1997), Roma, student of George Enescu.

15 Madalin Voicu - son of Ion Voicu, politician, violinist and conductor.

16 Damian Draghici - musician settled in the U.S.. Ambassador for the Roma minority in the European Year of Equal Opportunities for All (2007) and the European Year of Intercultural Dialogue (2008). In 2012 he was awarded the Order of Arts and Letters in rank of Knight of the French Embassy in Bucharest.

17 Alex Velea ‒ pop singer

18 Pepe ‒ latino music singer

19 Connect-R ‒ hip-hop singer

20 Andrei Mihalache ‒ musician, fiddler.

21 Romica Puceanu - musician, fiddler (1928-1996)

22 Jean Constantin ‒ considered one of the greatest Romanian actors (1927-2010)

23 Romica Tociu - comedian

24 Luminita Cioaba - Romani poet, her books have been translated into Romanian and English. He became a member of the Writers' Union of Romania.

25 Johnny Raducanu ‒ famous jazz musician.

26 Idem 2.

27 Aura Urziceanu ‒ the most famous Romanian Jazz singer

28 Toni Iordache - dulcimer most famous player in Romania.

29 Jean Constantin ‒ famous comedian.

30 Puiu Calinescu ‒ famous comedian

31 Stefan Banica Senior - Romanian actor and singer (1933-1995).

32 Stefan Banica Junior - Romanian actor and singer.

Writers: Anton Pann33

Main conclusions & recommendations • A rupture was found between ethnic Romanian and ethnic Roma, particularly rooted in majority 's desire to have no contact with Roma minority. The most common feelings are fear and distrust, present since the early years of life, learned from family. • Romanian majority population, participants in this research, have reinforced these feelings through direct negative experiences with Roma minority, and indirectly, through the experiences of other people or media received information. • It is noteworthy that the structure of group discussion encouraged a anti-Roma trend among Romanian participants. People have fed each other animosities against Roma , and have reached a consensus against the Romanian minority in the group. In the Roma group, consensus was directed towards self- victimization. • We also identified a lack of understanding and acceptance of the customs and traditions of the minority . • The possibility of a tolerant behavior towards Roma is rejected by the Romanian ethnic group ( " once a gypsy, always a Gypsy" ), while this behavior is repeatedly invoked as being desirable by the group of Roma , some regretting that Romanian children adopt anti ‒Roma feelings . • On the other hand , Roma minorities feel excluded and satirized either by ethnic Romanian or media productions. Roma are outraged that they are judged and labeled without being given the chance to be treated equally . This frustration is what defines their relationship with the majority . • Roma prejudices and stereotypes strongly influence their social and professional life: they do not feel comfortable within the community, in school, they expect to receive insults from the majority and to be discriminated against in professional life. • Another important factor in the relationship between the majority and the Roma minority is the media. The general opinion is that the media only publicize information about Roma negative actions , which lead to a strengthening of prejudices and stereotypes assimilated throughout life.

33 Anton Pann - poet, musicologist and composer, is the author of the music of the national anthem "Wake up, Romanian."

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• However, in terms of entertainment productions , there is a feeling that productions as TV series “Gypsy Heart “ change or improve negative perceptions of Roma. Some of the Romanians debaters are really bothered by this fact ( the presumption being that other Romanian might believe that good image of Roma ). For what concerns the Roma , they also welcome productions and even say that it help them rediscover the traditions of the community. • If they were to classify Romanian participants’ intolerance sources, participants believe that family comes first , then the education (school collegues and sometimes teachers) and only last, the media. Almost all participants in the discussion, Romanian and Roma, said that parents have cultivated intolerance: Romanians say they have been taught not to play and be afraid of Roma. Roma recalled memories of social exclusion (a recurring theme being that Roma had lice), coming from neighbors , school and work colleagues. This intolerance planted in the family, was brought back to school, where Roma were marginalized by colleagues and sometimes even teachers. • Where is the media in this landscape ? The media seems to reinforce the prejudices of society and feed them to the people who are already convinced that Roma are bad , lazy, etc.. But media also creates ruptures in the intolerant mindset, by showing, sometimes, the good side of Roma (which Romanians have never perceived in their families). In conclusion, the media can be an agent for transmitting and hardening intolerance , and an agent of change and promoting tolerance. • Possible solutions to improve relations and reduce racism: programs that involve the direct contact of the two ethnic groups, keeping a balance between positive and negative news in the media, special information programs on Roma customs and traditions.